The new pact covers about 6,000 workers at 61 stores in the Indianapolis area.

“Thanks to the efforts of the bargaining committee, we reached an agreement that protects affordable health care benefits and livable wages for members of UFCW Local 700,” said Joe Chorpenning, president, UFCW Local 700, in a statement. “Our contract maintains one of the best health care and wage packages in the industry.”

The union previously had said it had reached a tentative agreement on the contract. At issue during the negotiations was how to fund expanded coverage under the Affordable Care Act beginning in 2014.

“We are pleased to reach an agreement that is good for our associates and provides wage increases, affordable health care and a stable pension fund to support their retirement," said Jeff Burt, president of Kroger's Central Division. "This agreement comes after thoughtful, respectful and productive work by both the company and union bargaining committees.